A year ago, 2.24.11, my marathon running girlfriend asked me if I wanted to run a 5k. I said “Yes!” She knew I was on my way to getting healthier and had been walking for a few months and just began running on the treadmill about a month prior.
I was never a runner, I hated running but I immediately downloaded the Couch to 5k app for my ipod. I only had 5-6 weeks before the race so I skipped forward a few weeks. My first race was in Providence, The St Pats 5K. We got there in a sea of about 4,000 people – it was both nerve racking and exciting. The gun went off and the race was underway. I pushed myself to run for at least the first mile, once I crossed the first mile marker I walked some. I finished the race running, and was extremely proud of my accomplishment. My official race time via online Chip Time 34:46.3 ! St. Pats 5K Race Results by Cool Running.
When she asked if I would do it again, I said absolutely. From that day on I was hooked. I decided I wanted to run a 5k every month for motivation. I completed 10 5k’s in 2011 and am on my way to finish 12 in 2012!
In March I have two runs scheduled, of course my anniversary St. Pats 5k and the Irish 5k in Pawtucket. I may attempt a third race on St Pattys Day, but I have not signed up for that one yet.
To date I have lost 20 lbs and running (and my g/f) has played a huge part in that. My eating habits have changed, my portion sizes cut in half and I am overall more fit. It’s not a diet, New Years Resolution or phase it is about keeping myself healthy for the “long run”.
Related Reading:
